Hard Day

I didn't write last night because it was a difficult day for me. I always struggle on the anniversary of my dad's passing. It's a bitter reminder of the many memories and achievements made without him by my side. It's definitely an odd feeling to know that he has been gone longer than I knew him. I was only 11 when he died and it's been 16 years since he passed. I can't even begin to tell you how that feels. But, as I was reminded by a very dear friend, life goes on. More memories are made. I laugh. I continue to go on. Like tonight- had a wonderful time with my amazing work friends. It was a perfect way to blow off steam in light of all the strike drama. I had a blast and am so thankful for those bitches! 

Dogs Make Me Happy

My dogs make me happy and I'm thankful for their unconditional love. More people should have hearts like dogs,  and the world would be a better place. 

Always Comes Back to Friends

I love my friends! They always make me smile and laugh! We are the raunchiest bunch of weirdos to grace this planet and I'm so thankful to have them in my life. My weirdos are way better than yours!

Let the UNpacking Begin!

Now that my head doesn't feel like it's going to explode, I can get to the task of unpacking the stuff I brought to my mom's. I spent the day working on my bedroom and it finally feels like home. No more boxes and suitcases. Now all that's left to tackle is my closet! Going from a walk in closet to a small one is very difficult! I don't know where to put all my shoes! I'll figure it out though! That's half the fun. It's been strange being off work and spending all this time at my mom's, but I am sure thankful for this adjustment period without the stress of work. It was a hidden blessing for sure, but I'm hoping things go well tomorrow in negotiations and we get back to work soon!

Benadryl is Magic

Last night I was still suffering from a terrible headache so I took some meds and went to bed early. Today things were slightly better, but I still had to take it easy. Tonight, I'm feeling 75% better, and I'm hoping after another round of advil and benadryl I'll be feeling all better. Sleep seems to help, so I'm gonna try that now!

Migraine

Today was a day to lay low. A migraine kept me hanging low and out of commission for the day. I managed to get to the grocery store and that's about it. So thankful for a mom who made dinner and let me rest for most of the day. Hoping this sucker will be better by tomorrow. 

First Day of Fall

Today, while leisurely running errands, I noticed the changing leaves and that all too familiar crisp in the air. I took in the beauty and was able to appreciate the wonderful weather. I came home from errands, did some baking, and rewarded myself with a nap. My pups even decided the nap was a good idea. It was a lovely, relaxing day! 

I'm Done!

I'm done!! I've reached the other side of the tunnel!! I am completely done with moving and cleaning and I couldn't be happier!! Utterly exhausted, but happy! Sleep will be so sweet tonight!! And well deserved!!

Every Rose Has It's Thorn

I'm exhausted again, but the ultimate finish line is within sight. That light at the end of the tunnel continues to get brighter and brighter. At this time tomorrow, I will be through the tunnel and resting on the other side. That's right. After tomorrow, my move will be absolutely completed. I can't wait to be fully finished. I know that my sleep tomorrow night will be the most restful I've had in quite some time. I need to rest up for the final day. *Insert the Rocky theme song here* I WILL MAKE IT THROUGH!!!!

The Day After

Instead of having to frantically pack, I spent the day helping mom with chores around her house that needed to be done. It was a slow day and we took our time. No rushing. I took a shower this evening because we did yard work and while I was showering, I missed the show- cops were out front because the lady across the street was beating up her boyfriend on the front lawn. Everything exciting always happens when I'm not there! No more showers.... just incase!! ;)

Moving Day

The big move day has come and gone! Most of my stress has melted away! I'm so happy! I still have some stuff to move that will come to mom's and some cleaning to do, but all the big stuff is done! It's all down hill from here! I know I will sleep well FINALLY. I had a well-deserved glass of my favorite wine and am so looking forward to crawling into bed and sleeping in. I'd love to stay and chat with you all, but a decent night's rest is calling my name. I cannot resist any longer. Dream land, here I come!

The End is Near

The packing is done, the furniture is wrapped, now all that's left to do is pick up the truck and wait for the movers! I'll still have some stuff to move to my mom's but the big move and packing will be all done tomorrow! I can't wait! I've got a bottle of wine chilling in the fridge to celebrate with tomorrow evening! 

Crap!! I did it again

Yes, I know. I forgot to write a post last night. I have been absolutely burnt out, exhausted, and every other word for tired. Today is no different. Another day of packing and hauling and getting ready for Saturday. Tomorrow morning, I am allowing myself to sleep in and take time for myself. It will come as a surprise to most who know me that for the past 2 weeks, I have been getting up before 9am. That's early for me. Also, I haven't been sleeping much and my appetite has been very low, but I'm keeping positive and focusing on the light at the end of the tunnel! I will make it through! 

So Close I Can Taste It!

Another day spent packing and hauling stuff. I'm getting close to being done- THANK GOD! But I'm gonna have to be done soon because the movers are coming on Saturday! Ahh! Gotta hurry up!! I'm sorry to my friends if I haven't been as available lately. My days are literally filled with packing, hauling, and unpacking. I pack boxes, pack my car, haul my stuff to my mom's, unload my car, and unpack the boxes and bags and suitcases so that I can do it all again the next day. I cannot wait for this move to be done and over with! I finally made some time to shower and even eat today! Yay! That's always a plus! Now, I'm hoping I'll be able to sleep for even a few hours tonight. We shall see. It will be another busy day of packing, hauling, and then spending some time on the picket line. 

Ugh

Had a great evening spending time with the bestie. We went to a favorite restaurant, had yummy food, and caught up on life! I need more days filled with friends and less packing in my life!! Soon I hope!

Productive Day

Today was a productive day at my mom's house. I was able to clean  and unpack some stuff here.... just to make room for more shit. BUT a happy addition was made today- cable to my bedroom. Now I won't have to worry about locking myself in there on long, cold, lonely winter nights. Now if only I had a door on my room.... the simple things in life. Mom also was happy with the day and had some painting done that she had been desperate for someone to do. She found a lovely handyman through the neighbors and he did an awesome job!! Highly recommend! And so nice. Well, I think I'll break in my new cable as I head off to bed! Now, what to watch? First world problems. We have it so good. Be thankful for all you have! I know I am!

Making a Haul

What a busy day spent packing and loading and unloading and then unpacking. Today, my mom came over to help me do some more packing. After packing as much as we could, we loaded up both our cars and headed home. Then we had to unload the cars and I had to unpack. This whole packing thing is getting pretty old. Needless to say, sleep is a rare commodity these days because I'm so stressed out. I'm hoping for a good nights sleep tonight. Boy, I've earned it. After the move, I know I'll be able to sleep again! Just gotta make it that far!

Day on the Line

Spent some time on the picket line and enjoyed seeing my coworkers and friends. Afterwards, it was back to the same old packing routine. Mom is coming tomorrow to help and I an hoping to get close to being done!

Déja vu

I'm starting to sound like a broken record. Yes, it was another day filled with packing. I'm starting to dream about boxes and bubble wrap. I've decided that tomorrow morning I will do some baking and spend the afternoon on the picket line. Of course I will bring what I bake to the wonderful people on the picket line. I need a day to relax and not think about packing all day long. Of course, once I get home I will do a little work. There's still so much to be done, and the time continues to tick on. I just have to remember that soon it will all be done!

Packing

My life is quite boring at the moment. I pack all day and inch a tad bit closer to being done everyday. I'm hoping to finish my kitchen tomorrow and that chore will be done. Then all I will have left is.... my upstairs. Damn it. One step at a time, one box at a time. I will get there... eventually. 

Thank You For Being a Friend

I have amazing friends who are so awesome for helping me pack!! THANK YOU LADIES SO MUCH!!! From the bottom of my heart, I appreciate everyone that has helped me and have offered to help! You guys are great!!

Start of Something Big

Today was the first day of the open ended strike. I'm hoping Allina felt the strength of the union. It was inspiring to see so many friends and coworkers lifting each other up. I know we will continue with strength, solidarity, and our voices will be heard!

Eve of the Storm

As I lay in bed listening to the thunder and rain fall, I can't help but feel like someone is telling me something. That Allina had better get ready for the storm they are about to face as their nurses, once again, fight for what we and our patients deserve. As we set out on our fight, I know many emotions are being felt. Fear. Sadness. Anxiousness. But regardless of what we are feeling, we know we are doing the right thing for us and our patients. Or fight is not an easy one, but it is the right one. Know that you may be feeling weak and struggling with your emotions as one, but the nurses standing beside you on that line will hold you and give you their strength. And you will be someone else's strength. Now more than ever, we come together and stand strong in solidarity. 

Day 2 at the Fair

Today was spent at the fair again. And once again, my step goal was far surpassed. My muscles are twitching, my feet are sore, I'm slightly burned, and I'm happier than ever. I love the fair and it's even better with great company. Tonight I will sleep like a rock and let all my stresses fall to the side. I will focus on the joy of the day and company well spent. Sweet dreams of cookies and state fair people watching bingo will dance in my head.

My Friday

Many emotions were felt today. Tonight was my last shift before the the start of the strike. I had to clean out my locker and as I walked out the doors to leave, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of sadness and fear. It felt like I wouldn't be coming back. I know that one day, this fight will be done, and the nurses will win. We are strong.... but the fear is still there. At least I know I can turn to my friends and coworkers for support. And I will be there to provide support as well. Just one more obstacle to test my strength. Funny part is, I've already been through so much that I know I'm strong enough to get through this and any other obstacles that arise.